Concrete binders are materials applied to old concrete when new concrete is poured. These are materials applied to improve the performance of the joint connection.
Concrete binders can be natural or synthetic materials and are introduced into the joints in liquid form.
When and why do we need to use binders?
Application time depends on the product specification. Generally, application takes place immediately before placing the concrete.
It is a material similar to cement mortar. Typically Concrete is made before it hardens.
The cement in concrete does not contain natural binders. When we pour concrete into old concrete, it may separate due to insufficient bonding. The process leads to usability issues such as water leaks, cracks, etc.
This is why concrete binder is applied to old concrete for better adhesion.
Properties and characteristics of concrete binders
The following factors and special characteristics can be discussed about ligands.
- Excellent adhesion and workability – Guarantees the connection between old and new concrete. Additionally, these applications improve workability for a better compacted joint.
- As a result it reduces leak permeability . If the joint is sufficiently bonded and there is no separation between the old and new concrete after the concrete has hardened, water cannot leak through the joint.
- Improve tensile strength – The use of binders improves the tensile strength of the bond.
- Improvement in joint flexion resistance .
- Reduce the risk of cracking
- Easy to use and apply
How to use or apply binders
- First, the concrete surface must be prepared.
- Sufficient mechanical roughness is required for smooth concrete surfaces.
- Water injections can be used to clean the concrete surface.
- Depending on the time until concreting, the binder must be mixed according to the supplier's technical specifications.
- The binder can be applied by spraying or brushing depending on the supplier's specifications.
- Furthermore, the concentration of applications must correspond to the information provided by the supplier.
Types of concrete binders
There are basically three types of ligands. They are
- Epoxy binder
- Acrylic latex paste
- Polyvinyl acetate (PVA)
Epoxy binder
This type of binder is often used for lightweight structures.
They have good addition and greater compression resistance.
Furthermore, they are characterized by good adhesive properties and good chemical resistance.
Acrylic latex paste
Acrylic lateces are polymers and copolymers.
It is a milky white mixture with a solids content of 45%.
These binders are applied with a brush or spatula.
Polyvinyl acetate (PVA)
This type of concrete binder is used for concrete repair work that requires the application of a small amount.
The binder reduces permeability and has high water resistance.
Furthermore, this type of binder is widely used because it is compatible with cement.
For more information, see the Wikipedia article on concrete .
